Washington State University announced this week that head baseball coach Nathan Choate has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the helm through the 2031 season, a move that underscores the program’s recent resurgence.
A Season of Firsts
Guided by Nathan Choate and pitching coach Jon Haarlow, the Cougars posted a 31‑28 record, captured their first conference championship since 1976 by defeating San Diego State in a double‑header, and earned a berth in the NCAA Tournament for the first time since 2010.
The squad finished the term with a program‑record 3.45 cumulative GPA, and retained key hitters such as Max Hartman and Ryan Skjonsby, while veterans Brian Green, Ruger Riojas and Eric Segura will return to anchor the lineup.
Pitching Prowess
Senior pitcher Nick Lewis emerged as a cornerstone of the staff, finishing the season 10‑2 with a 2.97 ERA over 100 innings. His nine‑inning complete game helped the Cougars upset Oregon State 3‑2 in the opening round of the Eugene Regional, and his defensive brilliance earned him a finalist nod for the ABCA Rawlings Gold Glove award, as well as Mountain West Conference Pitcher of the Year honors. Athletic director Elizabeth Cantwell praised the culture shift fostered by Choate and Haarlow.
With a blend of experience and youthful talent, the Cougars are positioned to build on this momentum as they look ahead to the next chapter.